Barcodes · 3 min read

What 2-D codes change on your case label

Stores are moving from the old barcode to a square code that holds more. One plan covers every size, case and pallet.

The barcode you know says only which product it is. A 2-D code says that too, and can also carry the lot number, the best-by date and a link. That matters for recalls and for the traceability records buyers ask for.

Illustrations, not scannable codes.

When it happens

The US industry target, known as Sunrise 2027, is for stores to be able to scan 2-D codes at the till by the end of 2027. It is a readiness target, not a ban on the old barcode: your UPC keeps working, and the same product number goes inside the 2-D code.

What changes on the case

Each case keeps its own product number (GTIN-14).
A 2-D code on the case can add the lot and best-by date, which is what traceability records need.
Pallets keep their shipping code (SSCC), made when you ship.

What to do next

Count the codes you need with the free barcode planner
Plan the 2-D code next to your UPC, not instead of it
Or let us plan every size, case and pallet

See a barcode plan →

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